Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 1 Feb 1990

Vol. 395 No. 2

Written Answers. - World Cup Games Travel.

Michael P. Kitt

Ceist:

91 Mr. M. Kitt asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport the progress to date on his discussions concerning travel arrangements from Ireland to the World Cup soccer games in Italy; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Tourism and Transport (Mr. S. Brennan)

As I announced last December after the draw for the World Cup Finals, I am anxious to ensure that the arrangements being provided for Irish supporters travelling to Italy are adequate to ensure their safety and comfort. I have recently been in contact with the Italian Minister for Transport seeking detailed information about internal transport arrangements, with particular reference to those services linking mainland locations with both Sicily and Sardina and those between Sicily and Sardinia.

Officials of my Department have also been involved in ongoing discussions and contact with the Irish Travel Agents Association and individual tour operators about the overall arrangements. Arrangements are being made at present for an early meeting between officials of my Department, the Football Association of Ireland and representatives of the travel trade. I would hope to be in a position to issue further information and guidelines to the travel trade soon after that meeting.